Uppsala universitet, Institutionen för medicinsk biokemi och mikrobiologi

Project description: Thanks to the rapid and recent changes accompanying domestication, comparisons of wild and domestic life forms represent an ideal system for characterizing the genetic basis of phenotypic diversity. Based on whole genome sequencing we recently compared patterns of genetic variation in dog and wolf to provide an initial understanding of the genetic basis of adaptations during dog domestication. We found that selection had targeted the entire pathway responsible for starch digestion and glucose absorption in the small intestine of dogs, indicating that a shift from a meat based to a starch rich diet constituted a crucial step during the domestication process. Combined with evidence that this change was accompanied by selection for mutations that also affected the ability to store glucose as fat, these findings argue that dogs underwent a general shift from a protein to a more carbohydrate based energy metabolism. Dog domestication may thus represent a unique and unexplored natural model for studying metabolism arguing that a detailed characterization of the genetic basis of adaptations during dog domestication represents a novel perspective on the molecular components of nutrient absorption and carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. To benefit from this new perspective and to understand how dogs coped with the fundamental changes associated with the agricultural revolution this project combines large scale population genomic analyses, transcriptomics and analyses of existing comparative genetics resources to localize mutations that are likely to underlie metabolic adaptations in dog, followed by physiological experiments in genetically modified cell lines to test the effect of the indicated genes on metabolic processes.

Job description: Research in the project described above. The successful applicant will mainly analyse population scale whole genome resequencing data and transcriptome data.

Qualifications: To be eligible to apply you must have a Ph.D. in evolutionary biology, population genetics, genomics, bioinformatics or another relevant field.

The position requires documented experience in large-scale next-generation DNA sequencing analysis and the ideal candidate is highly motivated with a strong background in statistical, quantitative or population genetics. Candidates must have good communication skills, both in written and spoken English. Programming skills are desirable. We will put great emphasis on your personal qualities and interpersonal skills such as ability for collaborative work and flexibility.

Application: The application should include 1) A letter of intent describing yourself, your research background and interests, and why you would be suitable for the position (max 2 pages). 2) Your CV and publication list. 3) The names and contact information to at least two reference persons (email address and phone no.). 4) A copy of your PhD certificate, 5) Any unpublished work that you would like to present in support of your application. The application must be written in English.

Uppsala University finds that gender balance and diversity brings a higher quality to the organization. We therefore welcome applicants of any gender and with different birth background, functionality and life experience.

Pay: Individual salaries

Starting: As soon as possible for a period of one year with eventual possibility to extension.

Type of employment: Temporary position.

Working hours: 100 %

For further information about the position please contact
Erik Axelsson, erik.axelsson@imbim.uu.se

You are welcome to submit your application no later than Febuary 15, 2018, UFV-PA 2018/103.

Type of employment Temporary position
Contract type Full time
First day of employment As soon as possible
Salary Fixed salary
Number of positions 1
Full-time equivalent 100%
City Uppsala
County Uppsala län
Country Sweden
Reference number UFV-PA 2018/103
Union representative
  • Per Sundman, Saco-rådet, +46 18 471 1485
  • Suzanne Borén Andersson, TCO/ST, +46 18 471 6251
  • Ellena Papaioannou, Seko, +46 18 471 3315
Published 17.Jan.2018
Last application date 15.Feb.2018 11:59 PM CET

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